Train for a 5K in Buckhead

Training for a 5K is a great way to boost your cardiovascular health, reduce stress or simply add more running to your routine.

Buckhead's beautifu neighborhoods are a wonderful place to prepare, and there are several 5K races coming up in and around the community, so it's a great time to get started.

A 5K, or 3.1 miles, is perfect for beginners, but it does take some training to gain the endurance to go the distance. Raina Hafer, NCSF, certified personal trainer and running specialist, shares her shape-up tips for success.

Commit to a Race.  Many local charities and organizations host 5K races in the area, so you'll be raising money for a good cause even as you meet your fitness goal. Choose a race date that allows you ample time to prepare. New runners typically need between 8-10 weeks to train, while those who are already active may only need 6.

Click here or check out the list at the bottom of this article to find a race nearby and choose one that is the right fit for you.

It’s also smart to tell friends and family about your upcoming race, says Hafer. “By doing so, you're less likely to drop out of the race and will also get a ton of motivational support to propel you across the finish line,” she says.

Find a Group. Connecting with others to prepare for a race can make training less overwhelming, and can help you stick to your training schedule. You won’t want to let your running buddies down by skipping a workout. Look for a running group that meets at the local YMCA or check out CoolRunning.com to find listings of other local groups.

Follow a schedule. Once you've signed up for a race, you'll need to create a training schedule.  Hafer personally loves the Couch to 5K app, which is great for beginners and super user friendly. Plus, at only 30 minutes, three times per week, it’s the perfect program for even the most time-strapped runner.

In addition to scheduled runs, more advanced runners should cross train twice a week. Hafer suggests cycling, yoga or strength training, activities which increase muscle strength and flexibility and ultimately help you become a stronger runner.

Work on Endurance. Building up the stamina to run a 5K is something that takes time. When you begin training don’t be afraid to alternate between running and walking, says Hafer. Run at a speed where you can comfortably hold a conversation until you become too tired to continue and then begin walking. Once you’ve caught your breath, return to running. Over time, you will be able to walk less and run more, until you can eventually run the entire distance.

Enjoy Race Day! On race day be sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before the actual start time to register and warm up. Most importantly though, have fun running the race! You’ve worked hard to get there, so enjoy completing such a great accomplishment.

Here are some upcoming events, including a few for those of you who are already trained and ready to go:

Sept. 8

9/11 Heroes Run 5K and 1-mile fun run, Candler Park

Battle of the Burgers 5K, John Howell Park, Virginia Highland

Sept. 9

RPM 9/11 Victory Run 5K, Chastain Park

Sept. 16

Black Girls RUN! Drive to End Hunger 5K/10K, Atlantic Station

Sept 22

6th Annual Walk of HEROes 5K & Tot Trot, Kirkwood

Oct. 6

2012 Firefly Run 5K, Piedmont Park

Oct. 7

Karhu 5K, Town Brookhaven

Oct. 13

Winship Win the Fight 5K Run/Walk, Emory University Campus

Oct 27

Fight For Air 5K Run/Walk, Sandy Springs

Nov. 3

Autism Speaks Georgia 5k, Piedmont Park

Nov. 10

4th Annual Uptown Rhodes Race 5K, Rhodes Hall

Breathe Deep Atlanta 5K, Georgia Tech Bio Tech Courtyard

For even more running events in and around Buckhead, check out the calendars at Big Peach Running Co. and the Atlanta Track Club.

Do you have more helpful tips for beginning runners? Please add them to the comments area below.